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Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

One of the best introductions among automobiles is the sport utility vehicle (SUV) and the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class improves with the addition of the large vehicle to the lineup. Furthering the model’s popularity for SUV-lovers is the fact that Mercedes-Benz provides the most luxurious vehicles and the GL-Class follows that tradition. Built in the Alabama plant in the U.S., alongside the R-Class luxury wagon and the midsize M-Class sport utility vehicle, the GL line represents Mercedes’ biggest SUV. Three rows of seating, lots of cargo space, and multiple luxury additions all compute big sales and popularity for Mercedes-Benz.

Consumers have long embraced the style, luxury, and top-of-the-line equipment of Mercedes-Benz automobiles and the GL-Class provides another reason to love Mercedes products. The introduction of the first large SUV (with accommodations for seven passengers) to the lineup boosts the automaker into an area that remained uncharted until its inception in 2006 for the 2007 model year. Closely related to the M-Class automobile, the GL-Class is unmistakably unique with the addition of a third row seat and about a foot of extra length. The GL SUVs have a chunkier style that has pleased drivers for years and holds up well among the competition.

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Features

The public received the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUVs well when they first entered the market in 2007, and it still holds its place in the segment. The 2012 lineup offers three trim levels to choose from. The GL350 BlueTEC model uses the 3.0-liter V-6 diesel engine, whereas the GL450 4MATIC and the GL550 4MATIC utilize a 4.7-liter V-8 and 5.5-liter V-8, respectively. Many amenities come as standard features, such as Mercedes’ electronic interface, called COMAND, and Bluetooth capabilities. All GL-Class models come with an automatic seven-speed transmission and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Evolution

Beginning in 2007, Mercedes-Benz introduced the GL-Class to its lineup as the brand-new, full-size, seven-passenger SUV that utilizes all-wheel drive on all models. The seating accommodates seven passengers in a luxury cabin with four doors. The available trim levels include the GL320 CDI and GL450 with both utility models, utilizing the automatic seven-speed transmission. The GL320 CDI contains a 3.0-liter turbo diesel V-6, and the GL450 has a larger 4.7-liter gasoline V-8.

For the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class the brand adds another trim option, the GL550 that uses a much larger V-8 with 382 horsepower and better-looking fender flares, 21-inch wheels, and a sophisticated grille.

With only a few upgrades in the GL-Class for 2009, added standard features include keyless entry and an updated head stereo unit that comes on all trims. The new diesel-powered model replaces the GL320 CDI name and goes by the GL320 Bluetec. The Bluetec model aims to produce cleaner emissions. The GL’s optional and standard equipment also shows very minor changes. Some of the features include a hard-drive-based navigation system, a rear-seat entertainment system, and the updated interface called COMAND that has a dedicated iPod connector and a 6.5-inch display.

For the 2010 GL-Class, another model designation change takes place and the diesel-powered GL SUV upper-level model uses the name GL350 Bluetec. It offers a few subtle styling updates to the interior, a slight torque increase, revised rear and front fascias, and redesigned seats and instrument cluster. Not every driver wants to have an SUV that looks like a huge, rugged monster, so the revisions have been well thought out to please all drivers looking for a luxury SUV. The meticulous refinement and engineering hasn’t changed in the GL-Class from the beginning.

Not many changes occurred with the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, and the luxury SUV remains as popular as ever with drivers who enjoy the excitement and refinement of the GL vehicles. The installation of a monitoring system alerts the driver when an object enters the blind spot, and the GL550 model gains a restyled front bumper. The automatic seven-speed transmission comes standard on the GL-Class and the all-wheel-drive system earns the 4MATIC designation.

When something isn’t broken, it will not need to be fixed. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class reflects that sentiment. Continuing the superior craftsmanship and luxury standard features brings the GL into 2012 with a very small change that relates to the exterior of the SUV. The once-optional LED running lamps now come as standard equipment, along with the existing assembly of high-end amenities. When choosing the luxury GL-Class SUV, Mercedes offers many optional packages to enhance the exterior and interior to meet personal preferences, but the 2012 model makes many of these features standard equipment.

There are only minor changes for 2011. The 382-horsepower GL550 gains a restyled front bumper. All models get a rearview mirror with integrated compass, what the company refers to as saddle-style second- and third-row head restraints, and the option of blind-spot assist. Another new option is the next generation of telematics, called mbrace, which includes safety and convenience features.